Byron (Covent Garden)

This is our first review for a restaurant but felt last night that due to the fact this place exceeded our expectations that it was an absolute necessity to pass on our positive comments.

To set the scene, me and my partner had such an abysmal welcome by the obnoxious waitress at the Real Greek on Southbank that we immediately left after being seated and got on the tube back to Covent Garden feeling low and disgusted at the way they had treated a potential customer. All I went there for was to have some Calamari I had been craving all weekend! In fact the Real Greek Experience had to this point ruined our beautiful day of basking in the London sun along the River and taking in the last remaining day of the Easter Bank holiday.

It had always been in the back of my mind to try this new restaurant BYRON especially as we had driven past one of its sister venues whilst going through Kensington in the day time. When we therefore passed the one on Covent Garden, I didn't blink twice to get my foot through the door as I was absolutely starving and could see from the outside it was buzzing with the right amount of people you judge restaurants by!

First impressions, what a welcoming establishment, this place immediately put my faith back into customer service and more. The atmosphere was relaxing and our waiting staff definitely need recognition by Tom Byng for the attentiveness and professionalism they go by at this venue. In particular Evan gave us a good tartan chuckle and is as the previous reviewer stated, a shining example of customer service.

We decided to try everything from the spot on Proper Olives, the deliciously succulent burgers accompanied with perfect fries and fresh salad. We liked the clever wine menu, the 'Great' which did not disappoint and the gorgeous warm Brownie Pudding with Vanilla Ice Cream, and finally the settle back with Espresso Coffee and Peppermint tea. Calamari craving didn't enter my mind once. What Byron lacks in GBK variety they make up for in the most important and ultimate stand-off, a great tasting burger experience with a few laughs on the way.

Yes, the Real Awful Greek Experience may have left a bullied sour taste in our mouth, however BYRON like a best friend, comforted and left us with a lovely bounce in our walk out the doors into the London City Sunset!
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Nick and Nikki
10 Overall rating
Food 9 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 10
Tuesday, April 26, 2011

They do very good burgers. Much less choice than GBK but, in my opinion, far better quality. And the side dishes are all much yummier as well.
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Faz
9 Overall rating
Food 8 | Service 9 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 8
Wednesday, March 09, 2011

After a couple hour walk through London, we arrived in Covent Garden ready for a good feed. We were going to grab a bite at Sophies across the way but having heard good things about the burgers here we gave it a try.

First thing the food - the burgers were very good, quality meat cooked medium rare and in a good bun. I went for a double cheese and my friend went for cheese and bacon. Sides were not as good however, the onion rings were fine but the chips were luke warm, greasy and just not really tasty. To drink we had a couple of good milkshakes, thick, creamy and a good size.

Service was what you would expect from a burger bar, not really expert but very friendly and quick.

For 2 of us with a side each and a drink each it came to £37 including tip. Not bad value for the quality of the meat, which at the end of the day is why you come here.
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Chris - View all reviews by this user
7 Overall rating
Food 8 | Service 7 | Atmosphere 7 | Value for money 7
Wednesday, January 12, 2011

byron has a lot of pluses but some bad points

decor is nice, staff friendly

i dont think they do amazing hamburgers , GBK are much better

prices are steep
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richard
6 Overall rating
Food 6 | Service 8 | Atmosphere 6 | Value for money 3
Friday, July 30, 2010

I came to Byron on its opening night and have to say that the service received was unparallelled anywhere else in London. Our waiter Evan was a shining example of how customer service should be given. I laughed so hard and looking at his pretty face during service made the visit all the more worthwhile. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a burger and a shake in an environment that feels a little bit like home in the heart of the west end.
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steven and becki
10 Overall rating
Food 9 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 9
Sunday, June 06, 2010